Three of Hearts, Pet of the Ballet, from Harlequin Cards, 2nd Series (N220) issued by Kinney Bros. 1889

This chromolithograph is a playing card from the second series of "Harlequin Cards" issued by Kinney Bros. Tobacco Company in 1889. Titled "Three of Hearts, Pet of the Ballet", it depicts a woman in a ballet costume adorned with hearts, standing before a mirror. This whimsical design reflects the popularity of playing cards as promotional items during the late 19th century, often featuring humorous or culturally relevant themes. The card's vibrant colors and detailed illustration highlight the artistry of chromolithography, a printing technique that achieved widespread use during this period. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City, houses this charming example of 19th-century American ephemera.